TWO homes in Bournemouth were severely damaged by a fire that started in a car port between them.

At its height, 35 firefighters were at the scene in Heather Road, Ensbury Park, after being called at 6.30pm on Monday.

Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service said that the roofs of both detached homes were left damaged, while the first and ground floor of one and the first floor of the other were damaged by smoke and water.

The occupants of both houses were out when the fire crews arrived, but a woman was later taken to hospital to be checked over for a pre-existing medical condition.

A spokesman for the service said the cause was believed to be electrical.